Armed robbery – appeal for witnesses

Detectives in Bournemouth are appealing for help in identifying two men captured on CCTV during an alleged armed robbery at a post office.

A 37-year-old woman victim was allegedly sprayed in the face with a pepper-type spray before the takings from a business that she was carrying – and about to pay into the post office – were grabbed from her.

The incident happened at the post office in Broadway Lane, Throop, at around 9.45am on Monday, 12 July. The alarm was raised when a man called Dorset Police at 9.52am.

It is believed that the two male robbers are in their late teens. Both are described as wearing dark hooded tops, with something over their faces.

Detectives are also keen to speak to a third man seen outside the post office at the time of the robbery. He is described as in his late teens with very short brown hair and wearing a grey T-shirt and dark trousers.

Detective Constable James Taylor, of Bournemouth CID, said, "I am appealing for the public's help in finding the men responsible for this alleged robbery and I would like to hear from anyone who recognises – or has any information about – the two men pictured in the CCTV.

"I am keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the alleged robbery, to anyone who saw two men running away from the scene, and to anyone who may have seen any suspicious, unusual or out of the ordinary activity in the area of the post office before the incident.”

The woman was treated by an ambulance crew at the post office for the effects of shock. She was not taken to hospital.

Witnesses and anyone with information should contact Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 222 222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.